Lemosho route is one of the best routes for acclimatization. The route is less used and a beautiful way up to the Shira Plateau.

The route is one of the few where groups may be accompanied on the first day by an armed ranger, as the forests around the Lemosho Glades are inhabited by buffalo, elephant and other wildlife.

8 days Lemosho has one of the highest sucess rates. The additional days give your body more time to acclimatize, reducing the effects of altitude sickness and give you more time to rest before attempting the summit.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Pre-Trek Briefing

If you have opted for the optional airport transfer, our driver will meet you at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi.

Later, you’ll attend a pre-trek briefing at the hotel to review the route, check your gear, and rent any necessary equipment.

Accommodation: Hotel in Moshi

Meals: Not included

Day 2: Moshi to Mti Mkubwa Camp

After breakfast, we drive to Lemosho Gate (about 3-4 hours). From there, we hike through lush montane forest to Mti Mkubwa Camp (Big Tree Camp).

• Elevation: 1830m to 2650m
• Distance: 6km / 4mi
• Time: 2–3 hours
• Habitat: Montane Forest
• Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp

Today, the trail steepens and transitions into the moorland zone with its unique giant heather and volcanic scenery. We cross several streams and crest the Shira Ridge, before descending slightly to camp.

• Elevation: 2650m to 3500m
• Distance: 8km / 5mi
• Time: 4–5 hours
• Habitat: Moorland
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Shira 1 to Shira 2 Camp

A gentle hike across the Shira Plateau brings us to Shira 2 Camp, located in the moorland meadows. Excellent day for acclimatization with optional short hikes in the afternoon.

• Elevation: 3500m to 3850m
• Distance: 8km / 5mi
• Time: 4–5 hours
• Habitat: Moorland
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Shira 2 to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower

We head east up a ridge and pass the Lava Tower (4650m), then descend to Barranco Camp. This day follows the “climb high, sleep low” principle, important for acclimatization.

• Elevation: 3850m to 4000m (via 4650m)
• Distance: 8km / 5mi
• Time: 5–6 hours
• Habitat: Semi-desert
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Barranco to Karanga Camp

A fun challenge today as we climb the Barranco Wall, then descend into Karanga Valley, and finish with a gentle ascent to Karanga Camp.

• Elevation: 4000m to 4050m
• Distance: 5km / 3mi
• Time: 3–4 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Karanga to Barafu Camp

Today’s route joins the Mweka Trail and leads to Barafu Camp, your base camp before summit night. Rest, hydrate, and prepare for the early morning ascent.

• Elevation: 4050m to 4700m
• Distance: 4km / 2mi
• Time: 3–4 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Summit Day – Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

Start just after midnight and ascend to Stella Point and then Uhuru Peak (5895m), the roof of Africa. After celebrating at the summit, descend back to Mweka Camp, with a stop at Barafu for lunch.

• Elevation: 4700m → 5895m → 3090m
• Distance: 5km up / 13km down
• Time: 5–7 hours up / 5–6 hours down
• Habitat: Arctic to Forest
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate – Return to Moshi

The final stretch takes you down through the forest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate. Our vehicle will be waiting to transfer you back to Moshi for a well-deserved rest.

• Elevation: 3090m to 1680m
• Distance: 10km / 6mi
• Time: 3–4 hours
• Habitat: Forest
• Meals: